What is the difference between networks and packages?

Packages can share dimensions and fact tables, aggregates, and variables.
Note: When sharing a scripted source in a package, you will also need to share all sources used to create the scripted source.

Networks introduce two key changes:

  • They make it easier for users to share attributes and measures by picking objects from a subject area, rather than choosing specific dimension, fact, or aggregate tables.
  • They allow users to share information to specific users, specific space groups, or specific account groups, letting the administrator of a space share data with users that do not belong to the parent space the network originates from.

Networks allow users to share sources, attributes, measures, and variables.

Note: We recommend using either packages or networks for a given Network BI scenario. Birst does not support a mixed usage of both packages and networks in the same set of spaces.